A urinary tract infection is uncomfortable, and that slight prickly feeling during urination can be an indication.
What are the Signs of UTI
That sensation during urination can be the first sign of a urinary tract infection.
Other common symptoms include
- burning sensation when urinating,
- the feeling of wanting to urinate more,
- pain above the pubic bone, and
- bloody urine.
Who Contract Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections or UTI is quite common. In fact, around 1 in 2 women and 1 in 20 men will get a UTI in their lifetime. It is far more common however with women, babies and the elderly.
Causes of UTI’s
The cause of urinary tract infections is bacteria that has multiplied in the urinary tract.
UTI can range from infection of the bladder (cystitis), urethra (urethritis), vagina (vaginitis) and kidneys (pyelonephritis, which is very serious.)
Prevention of UTI’s
To prevent UTI or reduce your risk, remember to follow these guidelines;
- drink plenty of liquids, especially water, to wash bacteria from the urinary tract and bladder;
- wipe from front to back after urinating or a bowel movement to prevent bacteria from the anal region from spreading to the vagina and urethra;
- empty your bladder soon after intercourse, plus drink a full glass of water to help flush bacteria;
- avoid potentially irritating feminine products, such as douches or powders in the genital area that can irritate the urethra;
- prompty treat viginal infections such as thrush; and
- avoid spermicide-containing products such as a diaphragm that can contribute to bacterial growth.
Your Next Step
If you are experiencing repeated symptoms you may be suffering recurrent cystitis and require a low dose of an antibiotic regularly for a longer period of time.
Dr Gailani offers iAuRil bladder installations for recurrent urinary tract infections. This treatment is usually successful.
For patients suffering from recurrent UTS’s we would advise that you see your general practitioner and possibly obtain a referral to see Dr Gailani at omargailani.com.au
